Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and extra fluids from the blood. For some, this decline in kidney function is associated with genetic factors. One genetic link that has been identified in recent years is a variant of the APOL1 gene, commonly found in people of African descent. It can increase the risk of developing a form of CKD known as APOL1-associated nephropathy, or APOL1 CKD.
If you have been diagnosed with APOL1 CKD or suspect that it might be a factor in your kidney disease, understanding the condition, its risks, and the potential benefits of clinical research can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
What is APOL1 CKD?
The APOL1 gene is involved in the body’s immune system. Some people in certain populations, such as those of African, Caribbean, or Latin American descent carry specific variants (G1 and
G2) of the APOL1 gene that can increase their risk of kidney disease. Carrying one or both of these variants has been associated with a significantly increased risk of developing CKD.
Not everyone with the APOL1 variants will develop kidney disease. 1 in 8 African Americans carry at least one high-risk variant, yet only a small percentage will develop CKD. For those who do develop the disease, it can progress more rapidly and have a higher risk of kidney failure. This makes early intervention and management important.
Symptoms of APOL1 CKD
Like other forms of CKD, APOL1 CKD may not cause symptoms in its early stages. As kidney function worsens, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Swelling (especially in the legs and feet) caused by fluid buildup
- Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
- Difficulty concentrating
- High blood pressure that may be hard to control
Since many of these symptoms can overlap with other health conditions, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to confirm an APOL1 CKD diagnosis, particularly if you are of African descent and have a family history of kidney disease.
Diagnosing APOL1 CKD
Diagnosing APOL1 CKD typically involves blood and urine tests to assess kidney function, as well as genetic testing to determine whether you carry high-risk APOL1 gene variants. If you are diagnosed with APOL1 CKD, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or other treatments to help manage the condition and delay kidney damage.
Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Clinical trials play a crucial role in discovering new treatments and improving our understanding of diseases like APOL1 CKD. They allow researchers to test new therapies and study their effects on different populations. They offer access to the latest advancements before they become widely available.
Participating in a clinical trial can provide a unique opportunity to receive care that goes beyond standard treatments. It also gives you a chance to contribute to medical research that could benefit others with APOL1 CKD in the future.
The AMPLITUDE Clinical Research Study
The AMPLITUDE study is a clinical research study specifically designed to investigate new treatments for APOL1 CKD. By participating, you could help researchers gain valuable insights into how to manage and potentially treat APOL1 CKD more effectively.
The study is currently enrolling adults who meet certain criteria and are interested in taking part in APOL1 CKD research. Those who qualify will receive care from a dedicated research team and have access to study-related medical assessments and treatments.
How to Get Involved
If you or someone you know is living with APOL1 CKD, consider learning more about the AMPLITUDE study. Participating in a clinical trial provides a chance to make a difference in the future of kidney disease treatment.
Visit here to determine if the study is a good fit for you. Taking this step not only opens the door to advanced care options for yourself but also contributes to a better understanding of APOL1 CKD for others.
Join the AMPLITUDE study today and take a proactive step in managing your APOL1 CKD.
References
American Kidney Fund. APOL-1 Mediated Kidney Disease
American Association of Kidney Patients. APOL 1 Gene
National Kidney Foundation. APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD)
Neph Cure for Rare Kidney Disease. APOL1 Kidney DIsease
